Business Development & Operations Manager (Hydrovac)

OverviewThis role is designed for a high-impact leader responsible for both aggressive market development and disciplined operational execution within the Southern California Hydrovac division.The Business Development & Operations Manager owns the full lifecycle of the division from securing long-term contracts and building client relationships ensuring safe, efficient, and profitable field operations. Serving as the Integrator of the local business unit, this role is responsible for transforming subcontracted services into a self-performing, scalable operation while building a strong regional brand and a high-utilization fleet.This position requires a strong field presence, direct client engagement, and hands-on operational leadership across dispatch, field execution, safety, and fleet performance.Essential Job FunctionsMarket Expansion & Revenue GrowthIdentify and secure service agreements with civil engineering firms, property managers, facility managers, utility companies, and municipal public works departmentsLead estimating and bid development to ensure competitive and profitable pricingDevelop and maintain relationships with Tier-1 contractors and municipal agenciesDrives business growth by conducting in-person drop-ins to build relationships, generate opportunities, and maintain a strong client presenceRepresent the company at industry events to support brand growth in Southern CaliforniaPlans and delivers engaging service education to clients, strengthen relationships, and generate new business opportunitiesOperational Excellence & SafetyOversee daily dispatch, scheduling, and field execution to ensure reliable, on-time service deliveryMaintain strict compliance with OSHA, DOT, 811, CARB, and California environmental regulationsEnforce a zero-incident safety culture through training, audits, and field oversightEnsure proper handling and disposal of materials in compliance with local water and environmental regulationsEnsures accuracy and quality by reviewing job scope and completed work, then processing projects for timely and accurate invoicing.Team Leadership & DevelopmentHire, train, and develop high-performing team members aligned with role requirements and company standards (“right people in the right seats”)Ensures all documentation, notes, and activities are accurately recorded and maintained in the CRM system to support visibility and workflow efficiency.Build a strong accountability-driven team culture focused on safety, performance, and customer serviceProvide ongoing coaching in equipment operation, jobsite safety, and client interactionFleet & Resource ManagementOptimize fleet utilization to maximize productive field timeSchedule field resources for inspections and field operations for service execution.Oversee preventative maintenance programs to reduce downtime and repair costsCoordinate equipment availability with operational and project demandsEducation & Experience5+ years of experience in Hydrovac, underground utility, or heavy civil construction industries3+ years in leadership or operational management rolesProven ability to build and grow a customer base in industrial or construction servicesStrong technical knowledge of hydrovac systems, vacuum trucks, and soft dig excavation methodsValid Class A or B CDL required (Tanker endorsement preferred)Understanding of DOT compliance and California labor regulationsStrong ownership mindset with ability to operate autonomouslyPERFORMANCE METRICS Revenue growth through new account acquisition and contract expansion Fleet utilization rate of 85% or higher Maintenance of an Experience Modification Rate (EMR) below industry average Successful transition of the division into a self-sustaining operational unit